In the wake of the overturning of Roe v. Wade last June, the herbalism community has been grappling with an ethical dilemma surrounding the discussion of herbal abortions on social media. Herbalist Sarah Corbett of Rowan + Sage, along with many others in the field, has been inundated with requests for information on herbal abortions since the landmark Supreme Court ruling was reversed.
While the topic of herbal abortions has gained traction on platforms like TikTok, herbalists like Corbett and Victoria Fillmore of Cedar Hill Homestead are hesitant to discuss it online due to serious ethical and safety concerns. One major issue is that herbalists are not licensed health professionals and could potentially face legal consequences for discussing herbal abortions in states where they are not legal.
Corbett, based in Georgia, where abortions are now illegal after six weeks of pregnancy, and Fillmore, based in Tennessee, where abortions are criminalized at all stages of pregnancy, are particularly cautious about discussing herbal abortions online. They stress the importance of personalized care and the potential risks associated with using herbs for reproductive purposes without proper guidance and supervision.
Herbalists emphasize that social media is not the appropriate space for discussing herbal abortions, as it is impossible to provide individualized care and guidance in a public forum. They recommend seeking out established herbalists in your area for information on herbalism and reproductive healthcare, ideally in person, where a more nuanced and comprehensive conversation can take place. In today’s volatile political climate, it is crucial to approach professionals with humility and respect, especially when seeking expertise or guidance on important issues such as reproductive healthcare. The reality is that nobody owes you their time or knowledge, so it is essential to show gratitude and appreciation for any assistance you receive.
One key aspect of proactive reproductive care that is often overlooked is cycle tracking. By understanding and monitoring your menstrual cycle, you can better anticipate and address any reproductive health concerns that may arise. This is particularly important in areas where access to reproductive healthcare is limited or under threat.
It is important to recognize the broader political context in which we exist, especially when it comes to reproductive rights. With the ongoing attacks on reproductive healthcare in the U.S., including restrictions on abortion access, it is more important than ever to stay informed and prepared. Many individuals now have to travel long distances to access essential reproductive healthcare services, highlighting the urgent need for proactive and preventative care measures.
In response to these challenges, it is crucial to prioritize community care and connections, as well as invest in initiatives that promote safe and comprehensive reproductive healthcare for all individuals. While alternative methods such as herbal abortions may be tempting in the face of restrictive legislation, it is essential to focus on maintaining access to medically sound and safe reproductive healthcare options for everyone.
By approaching professionals with humility and respect, and by staying informed and proactive about reproductive healthcare, we can work towards a future where everyone has access to the care they need. Let us remember that we are all in this together, and that by supporting each other and advocating for comprehensive reproductive healthcare, we can create a more just and equitable society for all.
